(September 5, 2008)--Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott says he's joining lawyers for a condemned inmate's appeal in calling for a review of the case even if the execution is delayed.
Charles Dean Hood faces is scheduled to die Wednesday for a 1989 double killing in Plano.
Allegations of an unethical romantic relationship between the trial judge and prosecutor in the case have been raised by Hood's attorneys.
Abbott said in a letter Friday to Collin County District Attorney John Roach that he believes the unique issues in this case warrant thorough review first.
Hood's lawyers contend the secret relationship they allege between retired trial judge Verla Sue Holland and Roach's predecessor, former District Attorney Tom O'Connell, tainted Hood's 1990 trial.
A hearing will be held Monday.
Holland and O'Connell have declined to address the allegations of engaging in a secret affair.
Texas Attorney General’s Web Site
Click Here For